We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Eryi Wang. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Eryi below.

Eryi , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

I feel so lucky to be an artist. It allows me to be creative and share my thoughts with the world, and it’s also flexible. It lets me work on multiple projects at once and enjoy long-term joy and fulfillment. I’ve had so many jobs before—full-time, part-time, customer service, teaching, wedding planning, office administration, and more. All of those jobs taught me valuable lessons: how to communicate in a work environment, time management, leadership, and so on. I believe all of this helps me now as an artist.
But do I want to have a regular job? I think not, although I do think about it once in a while. The last time I considered it was when one of my friends told me how she could finally take a vacation after completing a large project at her company. She said she wouldn’t think about work at all and would enjoy the vacation as much as possible.
That made me reflect—being an artist means work is always part of my life. Even on vacation, I’m constantly thinking about it. So, there’s never a complete break from art; it feels more like a lifelong commitment.
Also, with a regular job, there’s a steady income, which means less financial pressure compared to being an artist.
But in the end, those worries are just part of what it takes to have such an amazing job as being an artist. I believe it’s definitely worth it.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

As an interdisciplinary artist based in Minneapolis, my work spans digital illustration, painting, and installation. I create satirical tableaus that combine vibrant collages, everyday objects, and fragmented scenes. Through my art, I explore themes of loneliness, the environment, and the human condition, often with a touch of dark humor.

Originally from Beijing, China, my journey to becoming an artist has been quite unconventional. I moved to New Zealand when I was 17, choosing the country by randomly picking it on a map. I didn’t even know the name of the country at the time. There, I earned a Bachelor of Science from Auckland University of Technology. I’ve always been good at visual art and have used images to express my feelings. After years of working regular jobs, I started searching for a way to truly share my thoughts and express myself—and that’s when I found art. Now, I’m pursuing an MFA at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD).

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

To support artists and a thriving creative ecosystem, society can offer more accessible funding, affordable spaces, and mentorship opportunities. Prioritizing arts education, public art projects, and fair compensation is key. Helping artists with business skills and mental health support can make a big difference too.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

I started sharing my work on a social media platform called Xiaohongshu, which is like the Chinese version of Instagram, as well as on Instagram itself. I’ve received a lot of comments like, “Your art made my day,” “That’s exactly how I feel,” “The colors are so soothing,” and even, “That looks awesome.” These likes and comments make me feel like I’m not alone, and that my art truly resonates with people. I believe images can convey more complex feelings and meanings than words. Being able to illustrate these emotions and connect with others through my art feels incredibly rewarding.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eryi_wang